Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 25:14

"For [it is] as [when] a man, going into another country, called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods." — Matthew 25:14 (ASV)

The introduction to this parable is somewhat abrupt; probably it is so tightly associated with the last one that it shares its introduction. Servants (lit., “slaves”; GK 1528) in the ancient world could enjoy considerable responsibility and authority. The man going on a journey entrusts his cash assets to three of his slaves who are understood to be almost partners in his affairs and who may share some of his profits. The departure and the property are integral parts of the story and should not be allegorized to refer to the Ascension and the gifts of the Spirit.